Travel inspiration – secret spots you must visit!

Still looking for some inspiration on where to travel this year? Fancy planning a last minute break away to relax or catch some sun before the summer ends. Here at Maps International we’ve put a list of a few places that we would like to visit this week – the MI top 5!

1. Marrakech, Morroco

Immerse yourself in the markets of Marrakech and find some fascinating arts and crafts. Join in a spectacular festival and don’t forget to enjoy the heavily spiced cuisine that Marrakech has to offer. A speciality of the city and a symbol of their cuisine is tangia marrakshia – a slow cooked beef dish cooked with spices in a traditional oven on hot ashes.

Secret tip: If you want to escape the mayhem of the souks, then retreat to the Kasbah quarter of the old medina and feel the tranquillity and peace engulf you.

2. Istanbul, Turkey

Visit Istanbul and see its many amazing landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Shop in one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar, which has been in operation since 1461. Take in the architecture, reflecting the various people and empires that have previously ruled the city.

Secret tip: Leave the crowds of tourists and slip off downhill from Hagia Sophia, down cobbled backstreets to find hole-in-the-wall places to eat brimming with fresh fruits!

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Break away to this tropical climate but take an umbrella with you as rainfall is high in the summer season. Don’t let that put you off though; Hanoi has many museums to explore if the weather gets too much such as the fine arts, air force and women’s museum. Join in an aerobic class whilst taking in the serenity and peacefulness around the parks. Fancy something exotic? Try a snake blood wine – not for the squeamish!

Secret tip: Wake up early and head to the flower market at 3am to be rewarded with fascinating colours and scents emerging from the darkness!

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Visit the picturesque capital of the Czech Republic and view its magnificence. Along with over 10 museums, numerous theatres and galleries, Prague is full of culture. Don’t forget to try one of their many beers whilst taking in the breathtaking views.

Secret tip: Visit Vojanovy Sandy – Prague’s first public park – a beautiful, quiet landscape which is perfect for a romantic stroll or afternoon of book reading.

5. New York City, New York

Walk down the streets of the New York, take a picnic around central park, visit a thrilling Broadway musical and take a look at all the shops! You’ll never be bored in the city that never sleeps.

Secret tip: Step off the tour bus because the only way to see the best hidden spots is by foot! Go to Pomander Walk and see the neighbourhood of Tudor-style houses on the upper west side.

The pin board mount world map allows you to pin all the places that you have been and help you visually decide where you should visit next. Choose this finish on our political world map as well as the antique, environmental, world is art range and many more! This is the perfect gift for those that like to travel. Go that extra step and personalise it with writing and a specific colour theme.

If you still can’t decide why not use one of our world wall maps to close your eyes and point to a country – careful not to end up in the sea!